Learn to create a WordPress theme

Char of Essential Keytrokes suggested in the comments of the last post that I create a WordPress theme. I have thought about this a lot actually, and while I’m comfortable with the design portion of the project, I’ve only dipped my little toe into the PHP waters. But, it’s something I want to learn how to do, and I’m confident I’ll be able to figure it out with all the excellent resources out there. I’ve decided to take you along on my little journey, and though any of the “experts” who might deign to visit my corner of the blogosphere may find my little journey amusing, I’m hoping that others of us will learn some things along the way.

Are there resources for PHP, theme creation (beyond the WordPress codex), etc. that you who are more knowledgeable might point me to? What has been most helpful to you? Point me in the right direction!

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6 Responses

  1. Char says:

    Here is a great series to start with:

    http://www.wpdesigner.com/2007/02/19/so-you-want-to-create-wordpress-themes-huh/

    I’m so glad you are taking this challenge.

  2. Phil says:

    Hi Randa, you don’t really need to know php to create a wordpress theme. I dived straight in with my site and created a theme from the example set by the default theme and a bit of digging around in the codex for certain template tags.

    Good luck with the challenge though! Drop me an email if you need a hand and I’ll see what I can do.

  3. [...] my post recently about my plan to design a WordPress theme, I’ve taken some first steps in the project, and [...]

  4. Ron says:

    I found Tizag extremely useful in getting started with PHP. On their forum you can also get some good help if you have any issues.

    http://www.tizag.com/phpT/

    Although not related to themes design or Wordpress, it will give you a good overview.

    Also, on http://www.sitepoint.com/ there are tutorials, and again a friendly forum community.

    good luck

  5. shaz says:

    your posts are really helpful! just wanted to say thanks :)

  6. Konstantin says:

    All the wordpress themes look very similar. It’s great opportunity to create some own.

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